The Poetry Corner

Arcades Ambo

By Robert Browning

A. You blame me that I ran away? Why, Sir, the enemy advanced: Balls flew about, and who can say But one, if I stood firm, had glanced In my direction? Cowardice? I only know we dont live twice, Therefore, shun death, is my advice. B. Shun death at all risks? Well, at some True, I myself, Sir, though I scold The cowardly, by no means come Under reproof as overbold I, who would have no end of brutes Cut up alive to guess what suits My case and saves my toe from shoots.